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Andy Carroll's debut for Dagenham and Redbridge didn't quite go to plan last night. The former Newcastle United, West Ham United and Liverpool striker completed a shock move to join the Daggers earlier this week. The 36-year-old left Bordeaux in the summer and has made a switch to non-league to play for the east London-based side who are playing in the sixth tier of English football. As part of the three-year deal he's signed with the National League South side, he has acquired a minority stake in the club as well. But his debut proved to be a a tough outing for his new team, losing 5-1 at home to Crawley Town. Of course, Crawley are an EFL side, so they were always likely to win, but it was 'Trialist B' who outshone Carroll. The big Geordie was cheered loudly when he came just after an hour with the score 2-1 to Crawley. And 'Trialist B' bagged a late double as the Daggers were routed on Carroll's first appearance for the team he's now part-owner of. In terms of Carroll's performance, the striker put himself about, as usual, and had one half-chance with a glancing header. After the match, Carroll signed autographs and spoke to the Daggers fans who had made the journey to watch the ex-England international in action. And speaking after the Crawley game, he said: "It was brilliant. As soon as I stepped on the pitch, as soon as I walked out, they were singing my name and cheering. "It is one of those feelings that you cannot explain. "I am investing my time, money and giving everything I can on and off the pitch to try and produce something great. "I think it's something that could be fantastic. " After leaving Bordeaux in the summer, the striker had offers from clubs all over the country and in higher divisions. However, despite being born and bred a Geordie, a return to the north east was never on the cards for Carroll. This is because his family is based in the south, having three kids with former The Only Way is Essex star and ex-wife Billi Mucklow. Speaking after completing the move to Dagenham and Redbridge, Carroll said: “I’m really excited to get started with Dagenham. My kids thought I was signing for Chelsea — they’ll be in for a shock. “It’s a fantastic location and close to my kids, they will be able to come and see me play. “I really enjoyed my time in Bordeaux but it’s time for me to get settled with my family. I’m hoping my kids will bring their friends to see me play. " He revealed that teams from all over Europe were keen, but feels that playing in the English sixth tier close to his family is a better fit for his current lifestyle. Carroll said: “I didn’t want to finish playing football and I’m really excited to get involved in the leadership side and be a player. “I’ve got experience in seeing how clubs are run, of all levels. I think I can add value. “My first job is to go in as a player, I want to get them promoted. I was offered clubs with a lot more money, but I realised Dagenham was a project that I really wanted to get into. “I want to help as many players and staff from my experience and background as possible. “I was getting offers from clubs in France, Italy and Spain, but I wanted to come home. “I could sign for a top club, but me and the managers might not see eye to eye, so I just want to be somewhere I’m going to be happy. ” The Daggers face Colchester United on Tuesday in their next friendly before they kick-off the season on Saturday, August 9 at home to Ebbsfleet United. All being well, Carroll should make his professional debut here. © 2025 talk SPORT Limited

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